Loading map...
SLC → GEG
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Spokane International Airport (Spokane)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the high-altitude peaks of the Bitterroot Range, the turquoise waters of Bear Lake, and a spectacular approach past Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Wasatch Mountains
Rugged, snow-capped peaks rising sharply from the valley floor during the initial climb.
Bear Lake
Known as the 'Caribbean of the Rockies' for its distinct intense turquoise color.
Bitterroot Range
Distant but sharp alpine views along the Idaho-Montana border throughout the mid-flight.
Lake Coeur d'Alene
Beautiful blue waters surrounded by dense forests, visible about 20 minutes before landing.
Spokane Valley
A clear view of the urban sprawl and the Spokane River during the final approach.
The right side is the clear winner for morning flights, as the sun illuminates the mountains and lakes. Watch for Bear Lake's vibrant color about 15 minutes into the flight. On the descent into Spokane, the flight often passes just south of Coeur d'Alene, providing one of the best aerial lake views in the Pacific Northwest.
Antelope Island
The largest island in the Great Salt Lake, visible immediately after departing SLC.
The Great Basin
Expansive views of the high desert plateau and the northern reaches of the Great Salt Lake.
Frank Church Wilderness
Glimpses into the vast, roadless 'River of No Return' wilderness area of central Idaho.
The Palouse
Dramatic, rolling loess hills that transition from green to gold depending on the season.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for spotting the unique salt crusts and evaporation ponds of the Great Salt Lake shortly after takeoff. In the winter, the snow patterns on the Palouse hills during descent into GEG create a stunning minimalist landscape.
Distance: 879 km (546 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: GEG (47.61989974975586, -117.53399658203124)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.